What was one of the primary arguments used by those supporting vocational training for African Americans?

One of the primary arguments used by supporters of vocational training for African Americans emphasized that it equipped individuals with practical skills necessary for employment in various trades and industries. Advocates believed that by providing specialized training in areas such as agriculture, craftsmanship, and the services sector, African Americans could secure stable employment and contribute to the economy, particularly during the post-Reconstruction era when opportunities were limited.

The rationale was that vocational education prepared African Americans for gainful employment in a society that often relegated them to lower-paying, menial jobs. It was framed as a pathway to economic self-sufficiency, which was seen as essential in a context where systemic discrimination and limited access to higher education persisted. This line of thought did not necessarily suggest that such positions were the ultimate goal, but rather that they represented the most attainable avenue for success in a racially stratified society.

While other options relate to broader themes of equality and empowerment, the case for vocational training primarily revolved around practicality and economic realities, focusing on the immediate needs of African Americans in their pursuit of occupational stability amid prevailing societal constraints.